Waiter / Food & Beverage Attendant

Nestled in the heart of Nairobi since 1904, Fairmont The Norfolk is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, where timeless elegance meets modern luxury. Set within serene tropical gardens, the hotel features 125 beautifully appointed rooms and suites designed to offer exceptional comfort while preserving its rich heritage. Over the decades, it has welcomed distinguished guests, global leaders, and travelers seeking refined hospitality in a setting that reflects Nairobi’s vibrant history. With award-winning dining, a heated outdoor pool, wellness facilities, and curated local experiences, the hotel offers guests both relaxation and a gateway to explore the city’s culture and nearby attractions. Committed to sustainability and excellence, Fairmont The Norfolk continues to blend historic charm with contemporary sophistication, creating memorable experiences for generations of visitors.

Reporting to the F&B Manager, responsibilities and essential job functions include but are not limited to the following:

• Set up and tear down service stations, ensuring all equipment and supplies are properly organised and maintained

• Take table orders for all food and beverage from guests and serve in a professional and positive manner

• Deliver crisp, efficient food and beverage service with excellent rapport building – providing an experience, not just a meal

• Foster a welcoming culture and maintain awareness of all business within the hotel on a daily basis, guiding guests accordingly

• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of menus – food and beverage – speaking passionately and informatively about all offerings

• Tailor service flow to individual diners' needs and anticipate guest requirements proactively

• Handle cash transactions accurately and securely in compliance with hotel procedures

• Review daily reports including arrivals, VIP guests, and group bookings, following up on action items as required

• Ensure the smooth running of each table, attending to all guest requests and maintaining constant awareness of guest needs

• Clear away used crockery, cutlery, and other items promptly and discreetly

• Work behind the bar as a bar server on occasions and supervise the smooth running of the outlet as needed

• Manage special dietary requirements and guest preferences, communicating effectively with kitchen and bar staff

• Allocate time to buffet stations to check for replenishment, cleanliness, and respond to guest requests

• Maintain high standards of personal hygiene and contribute to a safe, clean dining environment

• Support training and mentoring of junior staff members, sharing best practices and service standards

• Contribute to team meetings and service improvement initiatives, providing feedback to enhance guest experiences

• Minimum 1 year experience in Food and Beverage preferably at a luxury property

• An operational knowledge and proficiency in Point-of-Sale System an asset 

• Excellent written/verbal communication and interpersonal skills  

• Strong guest service orientation 

• Able to balance a variety of conflicting priorities while providing guest service 

Physical Aspects of Position (include but are not limited to):

• Frequent standing and walking throughout shift